Native Habitat:
Open forests, forest edges, meadows, and riparian areas.
 
Bloom Time:
May – July
 
Growth Habit & Mature Size:
Deciduous shrub, 3–10 feet tall, with upright, arching stems and large, soft, maple-like leaves. Produces clusters of white flowers followed by bright red, soft, edible berries. Stems have fine prickles or are mostly smooth.
 
Light & Soil Requirements:
Full sun to partial shade; thrives in well-drained loam, sandy, or gravelly soils. Prefers consistently moist sites but tolerates moderate seasonal dryness.
 
Willamette Valley Native Companion Plants:
Camassia quamash, Achillea millefolium, Eriophyllum lanatum, Sidalcea campestris, Festuca idahoensis.
 
Urban Garden Function:
Provides early- to mid-summer flowers, edible fruit, and vertical structure in urban gardens, naturalized landscapes, and pollinator-friendly plantings. Works well as a layered shrub, low-maintenance border, or wildlife-supportive hedgerow.
 
Wildlife Supported:
Flowers attract native bees and butterflies. Berries provide food for birds, small mammals, and pollinators. Dense branching offers shelter and nesting habitat for wildlife.
 
Historical Use:
Berries were traditionally eaten fresh or dried by Indigenous peoples; stems and leaves had minor medicinal uses. Valued ornamentally for flowers, fruit, and wildlife support in native and restoration plantings.